Opposition MP Premila Kumar has expressed her astonishment over the appointment of Electoral Commission Chairperson Barbara Malimali to the new Commission of the Fiji Independent Commission Against Corruption (FICAC). In a statement, Kumar highlighted that it is both surprising and unethical for the Judicial Services Commission (JSC) to endorse someone who is currently under investigation by the very agency she is set to lead.
Kumar raised critical questions regarding the JSC’s awareness of the ongoing investigations into Malimali, questioning whether they overlooked this vital information. She emphasized that this decision poses serious concerns about the integrity and legitimacy of the appointment process.
“How can the public trust FICAC to perform its duties fairly when its leader is encumbered with significant allegations? The public deserves transparency and accountability, particularly from those in powerful positions,” Kumar stated.
She has called for the Chair of the Judicial Services Commission to provide a comprehensive explanation regarding the rationale behind this decision and why it seems there was a lack of due diligence in such an essential appointment. Kumar insisted that the people of Fiji deserve better leadership from their institutions, advocating for appointments to be made with the highest standards of integrity.
FijiLive has also sought comments from the Chairperson of the Judicial Services Commission, Justice Salesi Temo.